The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has urged the Federal Government to revoke the airstrip licence issued to the Living Faith Church, also known as Winners Chapel, which was founded by Bishop David Oyedepo. This request came after the council’s 10th meeting of the Expanded General Purpose Committee (EGPC), which took place at the Abuja National Mosque.

The controversy surrounding the airstrip began in October when Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, announced the approval of the licence for the construction of a private airstrip. According to Keyamo, the airstrip would be managed by the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA). However, this decision sparked debates, with members of the House of Representatives calling for the revocation of airstrip licences issued to private individuals and organizations, citing potential security risks.

The NSCIA condemned the licence, describing it as a serious mistake that could threaten the peace and security of Nigeria. The council believes such decisions should be carefully considered to avoid jeopardizing national safety.

In the same meeting, the NSCIA also appointed five new imams for the Abuja National Mosque. They discussed other issues, including the lack of recognition of Islamic marriage certificates by certain authorities. The council emphasized that Muslim couples are often forced to use official marriage certificates in addition to their valid Islamic certificates, which does not align with Shariah law.

The NSCIA reaffirmed its 1986 decision that only the Centre for Islamic Studies at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, is authorized to organize the national Qur’anic recitation competition (Musabaqah). The council warned that no other individual or group should interfere with this process.